By Innocent Orok
“Upon assumption of duty, and in line with the CGC’s strategic vision anchored on the policy thrust of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation, I declared Trade Facilitation as the hallmark of our administration. We believe that when trade is facilitated, processes are streamlined, costs are reduced and more revenue is generated.
“Guided by the CGC’s commitment to transparency and modernization, the Seme Area Command has intensified efforts to simplify procedures, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure that legitimate traders enjoy the full benefits of Customs modernization and regional integration along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor”.
Comptroller Wale Adenuga.
The Seme Border Customs Command in its maiden media briefing under Comptroller Wale Adenuga to showcase the activities of the command from September 1st to October 9th said the renewed vigour inspired by the CGC’s leadership, led the Command to generate a total of ₦1,500,029,233.88 in September 2025, as compared ₦531,462,332.45 only collected in August 2025, representing an exceptional increase of over 182%.
This outstanding performance according to Comptroller Adenuga reflects the effectiveness of the CGC’s reform agenda built on compliance, transparency and data-driven monitoring of goods as well as the dedication of officers and men who continue to embody his vision of a modern, efficient and accountable Customs Service.
On trade facilitation and non oil export, the Command in aligning with the Federal Government’s drive to diversify the economy through non-oil exports and in direct compliance with the CGC’s directive to promote legitimate export trade facilitated the export of 53,989.46 metric tonnes of goods with a Free on Board (FOB) value of ₦7,969,376,198.78 .While the total Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fee stood at ₦39,868,354.42 only.
Adenuga said “These exports, comprising agricultural produce and manufactured goods, demonstrate the renewed confidence of exporters in the Seme Command as a viable trade hub under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS)”.
In its anti-smuggling operations, Comptroller Adenuga said under the guidance of the CGC’s zero-tolerance stance on smuggling, Seme Command remains unwavering in its commitment to suppress smuggling and protect national security, public health and economic stability.
“During the period under review, our operatives through credible intelligence and strong inter-agency collaboration, made significant seizures notably:
Five trucks conveying a total of 10,000 bags of expired flour originating from Egypt, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦1,210,300,000.00 only, intercepted in a joint operation with NAFDAC.
“The health risks associated with consuming such expired products could have led to severe infections, food poisoning, and long-term health complications.
“Beyond health implications, such unwholesome goods undermine local industries and erode consumer trust.
1,104 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana) intercepted through actionable intelligence. The social and psychological toll of such substances on our youth can not be overstated.
“120 packs of tramadol 120mg seized by our operatives, with two suspects handed over to the NDLEA, Seme Command on October 7th, 2025 for further investigation.
“Other seized items include, 2,043 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each)
150 bales of second-hand clothing, 169 bottles of DSP Cough Syrup with Codeine and five used vehicles”the CAC narrated. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) for all the seizures stands at ₦1,999,093,429.00 only.
Comptroller Adenuga said “These results underscore the CGC’s operational philosophy that smuggling is an economic sabotage that robs the nation of vital revenue and endangers public welfare. Our position is clear along the Lagos-Abidjan that any economic resource diverted into smuggling will be a colossal waste; it will be better to channel such resources into legitimate business that could empower thousands of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and create jobs.
“It is worthy of note to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, especially the Nigerian Navy (NN), for their support in the fight against smuggling in this corridor. The NN FOB Badagry has demonstrated that we are partners in this fight against smuggling by severally handing over foreign parboiled rice intercepted and seized on the waterways and its surrounding, we really appreciate them for that.”
In the area of stakeholders engagement and inter-agency synergy Adenuga said in alignment with the CGC’s emphasis on stakeholder collaboration, the Command convened two major stakeholders’ engagements from 6–7 October, 2025.
“The first meeting brought together Heads of Security Agencies, traditional rulers, and critical stakeholders along the Seme–Krake corridor, where far-reaching resolutions were reached to address multiple checkpoints, extortion and other trade impediments.
“All agencies reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating unnecessary checkpoints and ensuring the seamless movement of legitimate goods and persons without compromising national security.
“The second engagement involved our Benin Republic Customs counterparts, businessmen and licensed Customs agents from both sides of the border. This collaborative forum aimed to harmonize border operations and further strengthen the Lagos–Abidjan trade corridor, reflecting the CGC’s regional integration agenda”.
He assured that the Seme Area Command remains resolute in balancing the triad of Revenue Generation, Trade Facilitation and National Security.
“We shall continue to enhance our operational efficiency through technology, stakeholder collaboration and proactive intelligence. Our collective mission is to ensure that the Seme-Krake border remains a gateway of prosperity not criminality.
“Together with our partners and stakeholders, we are building a smarter, safer and more prosperous border corridor in full alignment with the CGC’s modernization blueprint.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the entire management team for their unwavering support, visionary leadership, and invaluable mentorship.
“My sincere appreciation also goes to the Military, the NPF, DSS, NAFDAC, SON and other relevant security agencies for their continuous collaboration. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Traditional Rulers and Community Leaders, as well as the good people of Badagry Local Government, for their remarkable cooperation and partnership.
“I equally commend the hardworking members of the press (our steadfast partners in progress). To our esteemed stakeholders and, above all, the dedicated officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, your commitment, diligence and excellence remain the driving force behind our collective success. You are all deeply appreciated. Your dedication continues to inspire this Command’s achievements and strengthen our resolve to serve with integrity and distinction”, Comptroller Wale Adenuga assured.
